The first shortlist of artists for the Singapore Biennale 2013 (SB2013) has been revealed. As Singapore’s key international platform dedicated to foster artist presentation and discourse in contemporary art, this year’s Biennale is focused on harnessing the energy of the Southeast Asia region to build a distinctive Asian identity for itself. Through a collaborative curatorial model that combines the specialised knowledge of 27 co-curators from across Southeast Asia, 52 artists have been identified. (Artists bios available for download here).

The list comprises established as well as emerging artists selected for their proposals that resonate with the title of SB2013—If The World Changed. Collectively, they demonstrate the breadth of art styles and the diverse and unique contemporary art practices of the Southeast Asia region, which span various mediums, including installations, paintings, photography, video and collaborative works co-created with local communities in the region.

According to a statement by the curatorial team, “We are excited about the shortlisted artists. As accomplished artists in their respective fields, they are the ones whom we want people all around the world to engage and interact with through their works and projects. Their proposals resonate with the theme of this year’s Biennale, and we hope visitors will also be able to relate to the multiple worlds reflected in their creations. With a focus on Southeast Asia, we also hope many people will come to know the diversity of contemporary art practice and the region better.”

Mr. Tan Boon Hui, Director of Singapore Art Museum (SAM) and a curator of SB2013 said, “SAM is humbled by the dedication and sheer depth of knowledge that our co-curators have brought to the Biennale, identifying, nurturing and opening up the Biennale space to diverse artistic voices and shadings that the museum alone would have never been able to conceive. The range of art styles and practices collectively encapsulated by this first group of artists show conclusively that Southeast Asia is an indelible part of the global art arena in all its colourings. As a vocal advocate for the value of contemporary visual art of Southeast Asia, the museum looks forward to the presenting these artists, their works and fostering conversations in October.”

SB2013 is organised by Singapore Art Museum of the National Heritage Board and is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth and the National Arts Council in Singapore.

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